Xfinity vs AT&T is a battle of speeds, prices and perks that can shape your home network. The two giants use different delivery methods-fiber for AT&T, hybrid fiber-coaxial for Xfinity-leading to distinct performance and cost profiles. Below is a quick-look guide that breaks down the key differences so you can decide which provider fits your needs.
At a Glance
- Fiber vs hybrid: AT&T’s fiber offers symmetrical speeds up to 5Gbps, while Xfinity’s hybrid delivers faster downloads but slower uploads.
- Price guarantees: Xfinity locks in a five-year rate on some plans; AT&T promises no price hike after 12 months.
- Bundling perks: Xfinity includes free mobile for a year on select plans; AT&T offers a $200 reward card for 2-gig or 5-gig bundles.
- Why it matters: Your choice can affect streaming quality, work-from-home latency, and long-term monthly costs.
Connection Types and Speeds
Both carriers provide a range of options, but the technology differs.
| Feature | AT&T Internet | Xfinity Internet |
|---|---|---|
| Connection types offered | Fiber-Optic, 5G home internet, DSL, cable, or hybrid fiber-coaxial | Hybrid fiber-coaxial |
| Download speeds | 300Mbps-5Gbps (Fiber) | 90Mbps-300Mbps (5G) |
| Upload speeds | 300Mbps-5Gbps (Fiber) | 8-30Mbps (5G) |
Fiber delivers symmetrical speeds, meaning uploads match downloads, which is crucial for video calls, gaming and heavy uploading. Xfinity’s hybrid setup prioritizes downloads, making it suitable for streaming but potentially lagging when multiple devices upload simultaneously.
Pricing and Introductory Offers
The headline price can be misleading; check the broadband facts label for the true cost.
Both carriers offer a $10 per month discount with AutoPay and paperless billing. Xfinity’s five-year price guarantee locks in the rate for 60 months, but the plan may start higher than a 12-month AT&T plan. AT&T claims no price increase after 12 months, though past hikes have occurred.
| Speed tier | AT&T monthly price | Xfinity monthly price |
|---|---|---|
| 100Mbps | $45 | $60 (Fiber-optic) |
| 100Mbps | $30 | $60 (5G Internet Air) |
| 500Mbps | $65 | $45 (Fiber-optic) |
| 500Mbps | $65 | $45 (hybrid fiber-coaxial) |
| 1Gbps | $80 | $50 (Fiber-optic) |
| 1Gbps | $80 | $50 (hybrid fiber-coaxial) |
| 2Gbps | $125 | $70 (Fiber-optic) |
| 2Gbps | $125 | $70 (hybrid fiber-coaxial) |
| 5Gbps | $155 | Not available |
All prices are accurate as of January 12, 2026 and vary by location and promotions.
Data Caps and Fees
Both providers claim no contracts and include equipment in the monthly fee, but there are subtle differences.
| Detail | AT&T (fiber plans) | Xfinity (cable plans) |
|---|---|---|
| Data cap | Unlimited (all tiers) | Unlimited on new plans; 1.25TB on some older plans |
| Contracts | No contracts | No contracts |
| Equipment fee | $0 monthly; Wi-Fi gateway included | $0 monthly; gateway included; non-return fee $150; extender $65 |
| Overages | None | None |
Xfinity previously imposed a 1.2TB cap but has phased it out for new signups.
Reliability and Customer Satisfaction
Performance depends largely on the underlying technology.
- Fiber reliability: AT&T’s fiber is less affected by weather or neighborhood congestion.
- Cable variability: Xfinity’s hybrid can slow during peak times or storms.
- Customer satisfaction: The 2025 Internet Service Providers report gives AT&T a 78 for fiber and 70 for non-fiber, while Xfinity scores 75 and 69 respectively.
Both companies offer phone and online chat support.
Bundling and Other Perks
Bundling can save money, but the terms differ.
- AT&T: Phone-internet bundles start at $32/month for 12 months, then increase by at least $10. A $200 reward card is awarded for 2-gig or 5-gig bundles. Ages 55+ can bundle two lines for $99/month.
- Xfinity: Bundles with 300Mbps-1.2-gig plans include one year of mobile service at no extra cost; after the first year, the line bills $40/month unless cancelled. The 1-gig and 1.2-gig plans also offer Peacock Premium for two years if activated within 90 days.
Choosing the Right Provider
- Pick AT&T if:
- Fiber is available at your address for consistent, high-speed service.
- You need symmetrical speeds for work-from-home, gaming or frequent uploads.
- Performance outweighs the lowest starting price.
- Pick Xfinity if:
- AT&T fiber isn’t available and you need a faster alternative to DSL or 5G.
- You want a lower upfront price and a five-year price guarantee.
- You’re interested in a free mobile plan for a year or Peacock Premium.
Key Takeaways
- AT&T’s fiber delivers the fastest, most reliable speeds with symmetrical performance.
- Xfinity’s hybrid offers competitive download speeds and a longer price lock-in.
- Bundling options differ: AT&T offers a reward card; Xfinity includes mobile for a year.
- Check the broadband facts label to understand the true monthly cost.
With these insights, you can match your internet choice to your usage patterns, budget and long-term expectations.
